Emerging Political Leaders Summit: Oyo Political Stakeholders Urge Youths, Women to Take Centre Stage Ahead of 2027

By E3Naija

Political leaders and stakeholders in Oyo State have called for increased participation of youths and women in politics, urging them to move beyond token benefits and actively position themselves for leadership, policy formulation and decision-making.

The call was made at the opening of the 2026 Oyo State Emerging Political Leaders Summit, held at the Ibadan Civic Centre, Agodi GRA.

The two-day summit, themed “Bridging the Gap, Uniting Political Strength, and Mobilising Emerging Leaders for 2027,” was convened by Hon. Wale Ajani to promote political awareness, collaboration and meaningful participation among emerging leaders ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Youth, Women Must Move Beyond ‘Rice and Stipends’ — Ojo

Speaking at the event, AI governance expert Dr. Success Ojo criticised the tendency to relegate youths and women to the “back bench” of political activities.

Ojo urged young people and women to demand greater opportunities and prepare themselves for leadership rather than depending on short-term political incentives such as food items, stipends and other temporary benefits.

She encouraged participants to take advantage of digital technology and artificial intelligence to acquire relevant skills, build sustainable livelihoods and increase their capacity to contribute to society.

«“Young people should not remain dependent on stipends from politicians for survival but should build their capacity to contribute meaningfully to society and the political process,” she said.»

Youth Participation Key to Better Policies

Representing the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Mr. Abdulraheem Adebayo said greater youth participation in politics would contribute to the development of policies capable of transforming the country.

He urged young Nigerians to regard politics as a platform for influencing public policy and contributing to national development rather than merely seeking personal gains.

‘Prepare Yourself, Politics Is Turn by Turn’ — Alarape

Former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Asimiyu Alarape, advised emerging political leaders to educate themselves, remain patient and adequately prepare for opportunities.

«“Politics is turn by turn. Prepare yourself adequately. Political opportunities will come at the appropriate time,” he said.»

Alarape stressed the importance of knowledge, patience and readiness in navigating the political space.

APC Youth Leader Backs Youth Candidates

The Oyo State APC Youth Leader, Hon. Olalekan Glory, said the party remained committed to supporting young people who aspire to elective positions.

Glory expressed confidence in the party’s prospects ahead of the 2027 elections while challenging youths to reject the perception that their primary role in politics is limited to political mobilisation or thuggery.

He urged young people to become proactive stakeholders capable of contributing ideas and providing leadership within their communities.

‘Women Must Be at the Decision-Making Table’ — Opatunde

The Oyo State APC Women Leader, Dr. Felicia Opatunde, also advocated stronger representation of women in political decision-making.

She urged women to move beyond being spectators and actively seek positions where they can influence policies and decisions.

«“Women must no longer be content to occupy the audience. They must be at the table where decisions are made,” she said.»

Ajani: Summit Designed to Prepare Emerging Leaders

In his welcome address, the convener, Hon. Wale Ajani, said the summit was organised to sensitise younger Nigerians to the importance of collaboration, political engagement and peaceful participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Ajani acknowledged Dr. Zacch Adedeji for encouraging him to organise the summit in Oyo State.

The event featured panel discussions, networking sessions and workshops focused on grassroots mobilisation, political party unity, leadership development and strategic engagement.

Dignitaries at the summit included Alhaja Tawa Alli, wife of the Oyo State APC governorship candidate, representatives of public institutions, political stakeholders and emerging leaders from across Oyo State.

A New Generation for 2027

The discussions at the summit underscored the growing demand for a new generation of politically conscious youths and women who will not only participate in election campaigns but also contribute meaningfully to governance, policy development and leadership.

As Oyo State and Nigeria approach the 2027 general elections, stakeholders at the summit emphasised that sustainable political development will require young people and women to move from the sidelines to the centre of decision-making.